Big changes have swept across the world of affinity graduation in 2025. Just as students were preparing for their milestone celebrations, universities across the United States—most notably Harvard—announced the immediate cancellation of all affinity graduation events. This sudden move, sparked by new federal policies and threats to university funding, has set off a wave of student activism and innovation as graduates fight to keep their traditions alive.
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Breaking News: Affinity Graduation Ceremonies Halted
In the first weeks of May 2025, students at Harvard and other leading institutions received official word that affinity graduation ceremonies would not take place on campus. The reason? The Trump administration issued a directive stating that universities hosting affinity graduation events—those centered on identity groups like Black, Latinx, LGBTQ+, Asian, and first-generation students—would risk losing federal research funding and accreditation. Harvard, for example, faced the suspension of $2.2 billion in federal support after initially resisting the directive.
This policy shift didn’t just impact Harvard. Universities in Kentucky, Arizona, and Utah also canceled their affinity graduation events, responding to both federal and state-level bans on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The University of Kentucky, for instance, stated that all identity-based or special-interest graduation celebrations would be discontinued in light of new state laws.
Affinity Graduation: Student and Alumni Response
Student-Led Affinity Graduation Efforts
The cancellation of official affinity graduation ceremonies did not stop students and alumni from taking action. At Harvard, student leaders quickly secured off-campus venues and began fundraising to ensure that Black graduation and other affinity events could still happen. Alumni groups stepped in, with the Harvard Asian American Alumni Alliance raising over $10,000 to support their celebration and provide stoles for graduates.
Six affinity groups at Harvard—including those for Black, Latinx, LGBTQ+, Asian American, veterans, and students with disabilities—are moving forward with unofficial, off-campus ceremonies. These events will keep the cultural elements that made affinity graduation unique: music, poetry, keynote speakers, and the honoring of traditions.
University Position: A Delicate Balance
University officials find themselves in a difficult position. Harvard’s Office for Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging was renamed “Community and Campus Life” on the same day affinity graduations were canceled. Administrators have expressed their commitment to celebrating all students at official commencements, while acknowledging the deep disappointment felt by those who valued affinity graduation. Many students argue that universities are quietly yielding to federal pressure, even as they publicly claim to resist.
Affinity Graduation: What’s Changing in 2025?
Recent events have brought about several key changes in the world of affinity graduation:
- Federal policy now prohibits school-sponsored affinity graduation ceremonies, threatening universities with the loss of funding.
- Harvard and other universities have ended all official support for affinity graduations, resulting in the suspension of billions in federal funds.
- Students and alumni are organizing independent, off-campus affinity graduation ceremonies, using crowdfunding and community support.
- State-level bans on DEI initiatives have led to the cancellation of identity-based ceremonies in places like Kentucky, Utah, and Arizona.
- Universities are emphasizing inclusive official commencements, but no longer sponsor or fund affinity group events.
Affinity Graduation: Tradition, Controversy, and the Future
Why Affinity Graduation Matters
Affinity graduation ceremonies have never replaced official commencements. They have always provided a space for students from underrepresented backgrounds to celebrate their achievements in a way that honors their identities and histories. These events feature cultural performances, traditional attire, and community speakers, creating a sense of belonging that many students say is missing from the main graduation.
Legal and Social Debate
The Trump administration argues that school-sponsored, race-based graduations are a form of segregation and violate civil rights laws. Critics counter that affinity graduation is about inclusion, not exclusion, and that these events are open to all who wish to attend. While a federal judge recently blocked some of the administration’s enforcement efforts, universities continue to end DEI programming and affinity graduations, even in states without explicit bans.
Student Innovation: The New Face of Affinity Graduation
With institutional support gone, students are getting creative. Off-campus events, virtual celebrations, and alumni involvement are ensuring that affinity graduation continues in some form. Many see this as a turning point: the loss of official backing is a setback, but the determination of students and alumni to keep these traditions alive may ultimately make them more resilient.
Affinity Graduation: Looking Ahead
The future of affinity graduation remains uncertain. Universities are unlikely to reinstate these ceremonies while federal funding is at risk. However, the spirit behind affinity graduation—recognizing the achievements and identities of marginalized students—remains strong. As students and alumni adapt, the tradition is evolving, showing that community and celebration can persist even without institutional support.
Key Takeaways
- Affinity graduation ceremonies have been canceled at many universities in 2025 due to new federal and state policies.
- Students and alumni are organizing independent, off-campus events to preserve these important traditions.
- The controversy over affinity graduation reflects broader debates about DEI, inclusion, and the role of higher education in supporting diverse communities.
The Enduring Spirit of Affinity Graduation
Despite the challenges, affinity graduation has not disappeared. Instead, it is being redefined by those who value it most. As the Class of 2025 finds new ways to celebrate, the story of affinity graduation is one of resilience, adaptation, and the enduring power of community.
Want to support student-led affinity graduation events or share your own experience? Join the conversation and help keep these vital traditions alive.